DHSS Press Release

DPH CHALLENGES DISPARITIES IN HEALTH CARE WITH EDUCATIONAL SERIES

Health care organizations and providers are challenged with responding to the needs of individuals with culturally diverse values,
beliefs, and behaviors. These differences can result in critical gaps in communication and care. To bridge these gaps, a cultural
competence education series sponsored by Delaware's Division of Public Health's (DPH) Office of Health Equity is offered to health
care professionals. The training will raise awareness of cultural issues which impact the delivery of health services and provide
strategies to improve health outcomes. This is the second year DPH has funded these trainings, which take place on Sept. 21 in
Wilmington and on Oct. 19 in Dover. Registration is $10 per session, with students attending at no charge. Additional fee waivers
are available. To register, contact Social Solutions at 302-239-4666 or visit www.DE-CCS.com.

The cultural competency series developed in partnership with the First State Chapter, National Medical Association, Delaware
Academy of Family Physicians and Medical Society of Delaware represents one of the recommendations listed in the Delaware
Healthcare Disparities Taskforce report issued in 2007. Dr. Cedric Barnes, president of the First State Chapter, National Medical
Association and Dr. Omar Khan, president, Delaware Academy of Family Physicians, served as advisors. In November 2008, DPH released
a Racial and Ethnic Disparities Health Status Report Card to highlight and monitor minority health disparities and the progress in
eliminating them. See the full report at dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/mh/files/2008dredreportcard.pdf

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health
and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.